2023-04-06 13:35:42
Hft responds to the Government’s new Autism Employment Review
On 2 April, the Government launched a new review designed to “boost the employment prospects of autistic people”. The review is set to focus on supporting employers to recruit and retain autistic people to benefit from a neurodiverse workforce.
CEO of national learning disability charity Hft, Kirsty Matthews, has responded to this announcement:
“We are pleased to see that the Government is launching a new Autism Employment Review so more autistic people can move into, and stay in, work. We are looking forward to seeing the recommendations that follow this.
“However, with the employment rate of adults with a learning disability remaining stubbornly low – at just 4.8% – we hope the scope of the review also includes adults with a learning disability.
“As a partner of DFN Project SEARCH, we deliver supported internships to adults with a learning disability. We are profoundly aware of the importance of providing the right support, to ensure adults with a learning disability move into lasting jobs that they enjoy.
“Supported internships have huge benefits for the individual, building employability skills and confidence, as well as employers, as placements break down misconceptions and bring diversity and new ideas to the workplace. We hope the Government’s recommendations reflect these benefits and how the barriers preventing these can be overcome.”
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
